What is Peach Leaves, Extract?
Peach Leaves Extract (CAS Number: 977183-61-1) is a flavoring ingredient derived from the leaves of Prunus persica (L.) Batsch, the common peach tree. This extract is obtained through various extraction methods from dried or fresh peach foliage and contains naturally occurring volatile compounds and flavor constituents. The extract belongs to the broader category of plant-derived flavoring agents used in food manufacturing.
Common Uses
Peach Leaves Extract is utilized primarily as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. Its applications include:
- Flavored beverages including teas, soft drinks, and flavored waters
- Confectionery products such as candies and gums
- Dairy products including yogurts and flavored milk
- Baked goods and desserts
- Nutraceutical and functional food formulations
The extract provides peach and subtle almond-like flavor notes characteristic of peach foliage, complementing or enhancing fruit-forward product profiles.
Safety Assessment
Peach Leaves Extract has an established safety record in food applications with no reported adverse events documented in FDA databases and no food safety recalls associated with the ingredient. The extract is derived from Prunus persica, a plant with a long history of safe use in food and traditional applications.
It is important to note that while peach leaves and kernels naturally contain amygdalin (a compound that can release cyanide when hydrolyzed), commercial food-grade extracts are typically processed and controlled to ensure safety for human consumption. Regulatory approval and manufacturing standards ensure that amygdalin levels remain below concerning thresholds in finished products.
The absence of adverse event reports and recalls in FDA databases suggests the ingredient has demonstrated safety in current food applications when used at typical flavoring levels.
Regulatory Status
Peach Leaves Extract does not currently hold FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, meaning it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process. However, this designation does not indicate the ingredient is unsafe; rather, it indicates the ingredient either has not been submitted for GRAS review or such a determination has not been finalized.
The ingredient may be used in foods under FDA regulations governing food additives, though specific usage levels and applications may be subject to regulatory review. Manufacturers using this ingredient should maintain compliance with FDA food additive regulations and labeling requirements.
International regulatory status varies by region. Some regulatory bodies may have different classifications or approval statuses for peach leaf extracts used as flavoring agents.
Key Studies
Scientific literature on peach leaf extracts is limited in the published peer-reviewed domain specific to food safety. Most safety information derives from:
- Traditional use data and historical consumption patterns
- Botanical safety literature on Prunus species
- Manufacturing and processing safety standards
- Absence of adverse event reports in regulatory databases
Research on peach leaf phytochemistry has identified naturally occurring compounds including phenolics and volatile constituents responsible for flavor characteristics. However, comprehensive toxicological studies specifically evaluating peach leaf extract as a food additive are limited in publicly available literature.
Further research and safety documentation may strengthen the regulatory profile and GRAS status of this ingredient.